ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Technical Artist Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

City of Ames

Auditorium Technical Specialist

Ames, IA · On-site

$24.60 - $35/hr

Examples of Essential Job Functions Provides artistic & technical expertise to internal and external groups and activities; designs and implements Auditorium Technician training in area(s) of ...

City of Ames

Auditorium Technical Specialist

Ames, IA · On-site

$24.60 - $35/hr

Examples of Essential Job Functions Provides artistic & technical expertise to internal and external groups and activities; designs and implements Auditorium Technician training in area(s) of ...

Graceland University

Technical Theater Asst-FASP

Lamoni, IA

$37K - $44K/yr

... technical proficiency. Beyond financial rewards, Work-Study fosters mentorship, networking, and ... Graceland University consists of two campuses: the Lamoni campus is a residential liberal arts ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsTechnical Artist JobsTechnical Artist Jobs in Iowa

Technical Artist information

See Iowa salary details

$89.7K

$130.3K

$144.2K

How much do technical artist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for technical artist in Iowa is $130,289.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $119,300.00 and $142,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a technical artist?

A Technical Artist is a professional who acts as a bridge between artists and programmers in the video game or digital content creation industries. They ensure that art assets can be easily integrated into a game engine without sacrificing either visual quality or performance. Technical Artists often create tools, optimize workflows, and solve technical problems related to graphics, shaders, and visual effects. Their role is crucial in streamlining the production pipeline and enabling both creative and technical teams to collaborate effectively.

What is a technical artist?

A technical artist works in the video game industry. In this career, you take the art created by the animation team and make sure that it runs within the technical parameters of the video game and hardware. You may develop or use special shading tools to make certain that the animation looks realistic in different settings within the game. The diverse duties of a technical artist require both creativity and technical skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a technical artist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Technical Artist, you need a blend of artistic ability, 3D modeling, and scripting skills, often supported by a degree in computer graphics, game design, or a related field. Familiarity with industry-standard tools such as Maya, 3ds Max, Unreal Engine, Unity, and scripting languages like Python or MEL is typically required. Strong problem-solving, communication, and collaboration skills help Technical Artists bridge the gap between artists and programmers. These competencies ensure efficient workflows, high-quality visual assets, and smooth integration of art and technology in creative projects.

How do technical artists typically collaborate with both artists and engineers on a game development team?

Technical Artists act as a crucial bridge between the art and engineering teams. They translate artistic vision into technically feasible assets by optimizing models, creating efficient shaders, and developing tools that streamline workflows. Daily, they may troubleshoot asset integration issues, advise artists on best practices for performance, and work with engineers to ensure compatibility with the game engine. This collaborative approach ensures that visuals are both high-quality and optimized for real-time performance.

What is the difference between Technical Artist vs 3D Artist?

AspectTechnical Artist3D Artist
Required SkillsProgramming, scripting, shader development, technical problem-solvingModeling, texturing, sculpting, artistic creativity
Work EnvironmentCollaborates with artists and programmers in game/animation studiosFocuses on creating visual assets, often in art or game development teams
Common Industry UsageUsed in game development, animation, and VFX industriesPrimarily in game design, animation, and visual effects

The main difference between a Technical Artist and a 3D Artist lies in their focus areas. Technical Artists combine artistic skills with technical expertise to bridge the gap between art and programming, ensuring assets are optimized and functional. 3D Artists concentrate on creating high-quality visual assets through modeling and texturing. Both roles are essential in creative industries, but they serve different purposes within a project.

How much do technical artists earn?

Technical artists typically earn between $60,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Senior technical artists with specialized skills in scripting, shading, and tools development tend to earn higher salaries, especially in large studios or tech hubs.

How to get a job as a technical artist?

To become a technical artist, develop strong skills in 3D modeling, scripting, and visual effects, and gain experience with industry tools like Maya, Houdini, or Unreal Engine. Building a portfolio that demonstrates your ability to bridge art and technology is essential, along with a solid understanding of programming languages such as Python or C++. Relevant education, such as a degree in computer graphics or a related field, and networking within the industry can also improve your chances of securing a position.
More about Technical Artist jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Technical Artist jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Technical Artist jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Technical Artist jobs in Iowa?

For Technical Artist jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Technical Artist jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Technical Artist jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Technical Artist jobs in IA?

For Technical Artist jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Technical Artist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Technical Artist job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,289 per year, or $62.6 per hour.

Theatre Arts Technical Director

Sioux Center, IA • On-site

Dordt University
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Dordt Universityexternal

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

DORDT UNIVERSITY

JOB DESCRIPTION

JOB TITLE:              Theatre Arts Technical Director

DEPARTMENT:      Theatre Arts 

REPORTS TO:         Theatre Arts Department Chair

PURPOSE OF POSITION: 

Provide leadership and oversight for all technical aspects of theatre production while mentoring and discipling students in a collaborative, educational environment.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Serve as Technical Director for all theatre productions, overseeing scenery construction, lighting, sound, and technical execution. 
  • Integrate Christian faith with artistic practice, encouraging thoughtful engagement with vocation and calling. 
  • Support a learning environment that emphasizes collaboration, creativity, and servant leadership. 
  • Collaborate with faculty directors and designers to realize production concepts. 
  • Supervise, train, and mentor students in technical theatre skills, fostering both competence and confidence. 
  • Develop and manage production timelines, build schedules, and technical rehearsals. 
  • Manage daily operations of the scene shop, including tools, equipment, and materials. 
  • Maintain inventory and order supplies within budgetary guidelines. 
  • Ensure compliance with all safety standards and best practices. 
  • Oversee maintenance of theatre spaces, scene shop, and technical equipment. 
  • Coordinate repairs, upgrades, and long-term planning for facilities and production resources. 
  • Assist with budgeting and resource allocation for productions and shop operations. 
  • Maintain production documentation, safety records, and shop policies. 
  • Participate in departmental meetings and university activities as appropriate. 

  • Based on the candidate's experience and interest, the position may include design responsibilities (such as scenic, lighting, or sound design) or teaching as part of the department's program.

  • Other duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

  • A clear understanding and commitment to the Reformed perspective and mission of Dordt University and ability to clearly articulate and communicate the mission effectively.
  • Ability to express an active Christian commitment, which shall include affiliation with a local, confessionally Reformed congregation that actively supports the mission of Dordt University. 
  • Prospective members of the Dordt University community are expected to agree with its sexuality, gender identity, and sexual conduct policy, which can be found on the Dordt University website. (Contact the HR Office if you need additional information).
  • Commitment to a Reformed, Biblical perspective as displayed in a lifestyle that is compatible with the mission of Dordt University as expressed in The Educational Task of Dordt University.
  • Bachelor's degree required; Theatre or related discipline preferred. 
  • Demonstrated experience in scenic construction and technical direction preferred. 
  • Experience mentoring or teaching students preferred.
  • Proficiency with standard shop tools, materials, and safety practices. 
  • Strong organizational and leadership skills. 
  • Evening and weekend hours required during production periods 
  • Physical ability to lift materials and work in a shop and stage environment required.
  • Oral and written communication and interpersonal skills that indicate the ability to work effectively and collaboratively with students, faculty and staff, community members, and other professionals.

Apply